Valley Library installs new sculpture “The Librarian”

Juneau Public Libraries installed a new piece of public art outside the Mendenhall Valley Public Library today. “The Librarian” by Ohio-based steel sculptor James Havens was donated by a local Juneau resident.

“We’re fortunate to have so much public art around town and I’m grateful to Fred Koken for donating ‘The Librarian’ for display on the grounds of the Valley Library,” Library Director Robert Barr said.

Koken has known the sculptor since 1954. He and Havens were roommates at a boarding school in Northern India, and have remained friends ever since. As a sculptor, Havens uses art to improve local community. He founded Havens Studio and Rose Foundry in Gibsonburg, Ohio, and taught Artistic Welding at Owens Community College. He’s the curator for a sculpture park in Gibsonburg, Sculpture in the Village, which houses Havens’ 9/11 Public Safety Service Memorial. His work can also be seen in Michigan, Oregon, Illinois, Minnesota, North Carolina, Washington, D.C. and internationally in India and Nicaragua.

“The Librarian” stands about five and a half feet tall and weighs 250 lbs. It faces Riverside Drive and library patrons can view it from the window near the hearth of the library.

For more information, contact Library Director Robert Barr at 586-0443 or [email protected].